Veteran unveils strategy to liberate Crimea following Russian destruction of Kakhovka dam
Retired Major Oleksiy Hetman, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war, shared with NV his insights on the potential liberation of Crimea in the wake of the Russian destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant and dam.
In an interview with Radio NV on June 10, Hetman outlined an alternative approach that could avoid the need for ground forces or direct entry into the Ukrainian territory, which has been under Russian military occupation since 2014.
“There were several options for liberating our Crimea that were being developed by our General Staff,” Hetman told Radio NV.
“One interesting possibility was openly discussed. It is possible that we can achieve the liberation of Crimea without employing ground forces, without directly entering the area.”
He explained how this could potentially occur.
“When we gain control of the Azov Sea coast, Crimea will be strategically encircled, making it impossible to supply the occupying forces on the peninsula through land routes. Their only remaining supply route would be the Crimean Bridge. However, it is highly likely that the bridge would primarily serve as an escape route for the Russians.”
The veteran further described the situation in which the occupiers would find themselves.
“They will realize that the entire peninsula is within our firing range, as our missiles can target any location in Crimea. Furthermore, they will be unable to receive any supplies of weapons, equipment, ammunition, or personnel from mainland Russia,” said Hetman.
“Additionally, they are currently grappling with issues related to drinking water scarcity. In light of these circumstances, it appears unnecessary to demolish the Crimean Bridge, as it would likely serve as an escape route for them to abandon the territory and facilitate its liberation.”
While Hetman acknowledged that this scenario may not unfold exactly as described, he said he viewed it as one of the most viable options to minimize Ukrainian casualties.
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